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Step into Esox House & Harbourline Apartments

Welcome to Farwell-on-Water, where luxury living meets modern comfort. Step into the world of sophistication and tranquility with our two distinct apartment buildings—Esox House and Harbourline. Each designed with meticulous attention to detail and tailored amenities, these residences redefine the essence of home.

Harbourline: Your Urban Oasis

At Harbourline, we’ve crafted 63 income-qualified apartments designed with your lifestyle in mind. Our one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans boast open concept layouts, flooded with natural light from large windows.

Picture yourself cooking cozy meals in our kitchens adorned with stainless steel appliances, elegant tile backsplashes, and solid surface countertops.

Retreat to the comfort of carpeted bedrooms, complete with spacious closets and air conditioning for those warm summer days. With easy city access, Harbourline is your gateway to St. Paul living without sacrificing comfort.

Esox House: Where Elegance Meets Nature

Experience refined living at Esox House, where every detail exudes sophistication. From premium finishes to breathtaking views of river bluffs and serene waters, each residence offers a sanctuary of tranquility. Our GE Energy Efficient Stainless Steel Appliances and West Elm kitchen chandelier elevate your culinary experience, while wood-look flooring and abundant natural light create an ambiance of warmth and comfort.

Pamper yourself in spa-like bathrooms featuring tile shower surrounds and double vanities in select units, providing both luxury and functionality. Step out onto your private balcony or patio and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, right at your doorstep.

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Both Esox House and Harbourline offer a range of amenities designed to enhance your lifestyle. Whether you’re lounging in the sun-drenched living spaces or taking in the scenic views from your private balcony, every moment is an opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. And with convenient access to additional storage, washer & dryer in-unit, and desk nooks for remote work, convenience meets luxury at every turn.

Ready to call the Farwell-on-Water community your new home? Schedule a tour at either Esox House or Harbourline today and discover the perfect place to call home. Our dedicated team is here to help you find the residence that suits your unique lifestyle. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your everyday—contact us now and embark on a journey to luxury living in Farwell-on-Water.

Schedule a Tour at Esox House

Contact Us at Harbourline

F-O-K Studios Artist Spotlight: Heather M. Cole

Meet Heather M. Cole

Heather’s artistic journey is a profound exploration of transformation, both conceptually and physically. Her fascination lies in the metamorphosis of things—how they can change, find new purposes, and undergo a complete transformation from their original state. Her work is a testament to her passion for reshaping common, everyday objects and materials into entirely new configurations and functions. It’s not just about altering the physical appearance but also about shifting the ambiance and, potentially, the thought processes of those who encounter her art.

In her creative process, Heather meticulously considers the life cycle of each original object, contemplating the path it takes to become something new. She begins by collecting discarded items, then proceeds to process them into materials through cleaning, cutting, and manipulation, eventually culminating in the assembly of the final piece. It’s a journey that mirrors the larger story of these objects as waste materials navigating through the world, often following diverse and sometimes destructive paths that impact our very existence.

Through her art, Heather aims to inspire viewers to reflect on their own actions and their potential to bring about change. She hopes to encourage individuals to reduce the negative impacts of their choices and, in doing so, contribute positively to the larger environment as a whole. Her work serves as a powerful catalyst for introspection and environmental consciousness, inviting us all to reconsider our roles in shaping the world around us.

Describe your art in three words

Eco conscious creativity

What medium(s) do you primarily work with?

Found material installations and objects, often plastic packaging

What themes or subjects do you commonly explore in your work?

Consumerism, eco concerns, creative thinking, thinking beyond the object, re-use

How did you start your journey as an artist?

I noticed something interesting and picked it up.

What or who are your biggest influences?

Things that are created to be discarded. Louise Nevelson. Arman. My grandparents made things from other things. 

Can you share a defining moment in your artistic career?

When my photographer friend and I took some photos of my work outside in the dark. I had been making light fixtures at the time and moving these to a different and unexpected environment completely changed what I wanted to do as a creative endeavor and I started looking at my work in a broader context.

How long have you had your studio at Farwell on Water?

10+ Years.

What do you love about working within the Farwell on Water community?

It has changed drastically over the years. I am interested to see how it will evolve.

How has the studio space contributed to your work?

Artist(s) need space. Physical space and mental space. My studio gives me that.

Do you have any upcoming shows or exhibitions?

I will have a three woman show at Artistry in Bloomington focused on eco and environmental issues. With Rachel Breen, Heather M. Cole and Shana Kaplow.

USED
Artistry/ Inez Greenberg Gallery
Bloomington, MN
March 22 – May 12, 2024

What are your aspirations for the next year as an artist?

Develop a workshop. Travel for Artist Residencies. Do something totally new.

Is there anything else you would like to share or promote?

Please think. Think creatively. Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Recycle.

See more of Heather’s work on her website:
DesignHMC.com
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The Minnesota Yacht Club Festival is Setting Sail in 2024!

There’s a thrilling new addition to the world of live music on the horizon. C3 Presents, the visionary force behind iconic festivals like Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits, is about to unveil a sensational addition to their repertoire. Get ready to set sail on an extraordinary musical journey—the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival, on our very own Harriet Island!

Alanis Morrisette Headlines – Astrida Valigorsky/Getty Images

Get Ready to Rock the Boat

The Minnesota Yacht Club Festival is all set to make waves in 2024, promising a weekend of musical magic, riverside reverie, and unforgettable moments. Picture this: 20 incredible acts spanning the genres of rock, pop, and blues will grace the stage over two glorious days next summer. Mark your calendars for July 19-20, and prepare to embark on an adventure you won’t soon forget.

Joan Jett – Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Live Nation

The Lineup

On Friday, prepare to be serenaded by iconic women like Gwen Stefani and Alanis Morissette, as well as the rockin’ sounds of Joan Jett & The Blackhearts, The Black Crowes, and more! Saturday promises an electrifying experience with the Red Hot Chili Peppers headlining and a supporting lineup that includes The Offspring, Hippo Campus, Soul Asylum, and a host of other fantastic acts. This diverse lineup promises an unforgettable musical experience that caters to all tastes. 

Friday, July 19

  • Gwen Stefani
  • Alanis Morissette
  • The Black Crowes
  • Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
  • The Head and The Heart
  • Durry
  • Morgan Wade
  • Michigander
  • Gully Boys
  • Harbor & Home
Red Hot Chili Peppers – Getty Images North America

Saturday, July 20

  • Red Hot Chili Peppers
  • The Offspring
  • Hippo Campus
  • Gary Clark Jr.
  • The Hold Steady
  • Soul Asylum
  • Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
  • Wilderado
  • Nico Vega
  • Irontom
Jeff Wheeler/Star Tribune

A Riverside Oasis: Harriet Island Regional Park

The festival’s stunning backdrop is none other than the picturesque Harriet Island Regional Park, nestled in the heart of downtown St. Paul, Minnesota. Imagine the sound waves of live music serenading you beneath giant cottonwood trees, along the majestic Mississippi River. It’s a setting that promises to be as enchanting as the music itself.

Your Ultimate Festival Experience

The inaugural Minnesota Yacht Club Festival is here to pick up where River’s Edge left off, and it’s bringing the heat! With two days of music spread across two stages and no overlapping sets, you’ll have the freedom to catch all your favorite artists.

The festival will kick off at 12:30 PM (doors) and continue rocking until 10:30 PM, ensuring you have plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and groove to the beats.

Tickets are Selling Fast!

Don’t miss out on this spectacular event. Secure your tickets now and make sure you’re part of the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival. Choose from a variety of ticket options to suit your preferences, including VIP packages for an enhanced experience.

In a world where live music meets riverside beauty, the Minnesota Yacht Club Festival is your ticket to an unforgettable weekend of music, relaxation, and pure summer bliss. Get ready to join on July 19th and 20th, 2024, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

F-O-K Studios Featured Artist: Tom Reynen Photography

Meet Tom Reynen –

A skilled digital photographer residing in Shoreview, Minnesota, Tom boasts an extensive body of work celebrated for its diversity and captivating imagery. His photographs, specializing in nature, close-ups of flowers, landscapes, architectural details, and travel scenes, have graced local galleries, exhibitions, and even the pages of the Minneapolis StarTribune newspaper. Tom’s talent extends beyond his home state; he also maintains a second residence in Vancouver, BC, Canada, enriching his portfolio with the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to his photography, Tom plays a vital role in the local art community. As the President of Gallery 96, a non-profit arts organization in the northern St. Paul MN suburbs, he promotes the work of artists from the region in various media. Tom’s active involvement also includes membership in prestigious galleries like the Dow Gallery and the Art Guild Gallery of Stillwater MN. With thousands of photos in his portfolio, Tom Reynen’s artistry invites viewers to explore a world of vibrant colors and timeless beauty through his lens. In this Q&A, we have the privilege of hearing from Tom himself as he shares his experiences and insights into the world of photography.

What themes or subjects do you commonly explore in your work?

My main areas of interest are nature, travel, and architectural details, such as doors and windows.  I also love abandoned buildings. Two of my favorite cities to photograph are Paris and Venice.

Cafe Le Buci

How did you start your journey as an artist?

I have traveled a lot during my life and photography started as just a way to document my trips. But film limited the number of photos I could take, there was a delay in seeing the actual photos printed and there were few options to edit the photos. With the birth of digital photography and cameras on iPhones, you can take multiple shots, get instant feedback and edit them to express different moods, colors and themes. This makes me feel much more like an artist.

Can you share a defining moment in your artistic career?

My first exhibit of my photos was in the Wilde Roast Cafe in NE Mpls. There was a small opening reception and during the month the show was up I sold 9 photos (and had one stolen) and that validation made me want to produce more photos and exhibit in more places.

What do you love about working within the Farwell on Water community?

I love that it is a growing community where I can interact with other artists, participate in group events and have a space to hang and display more of my work. My previous studio was 325 sq ft in Lowertown in a building not open to the public and none of the other 3 tenants were artists. So it was a place to work but not a place to thrive.

Dahlia Close-up by Tom Reynen

How has the studio space contributed to your work?

My studio is almost twice the space I had previously so I can store and hang more of my photos and the ability to paint the walls the colors of my choice will enable me to expand the portrait photography side of my business by reducing the need to rely on backdrops.

Do you collaborate with other artists at Farwell on Water? If so, can you describe one of these collaborations?

I have met several of the other artists but have not had a chance to collaborate with them but I am certainly open to doing so in the future. I also have a lot of experience in organizing gallery shows and working on social media marketing so I hope to get involved in those areas in the future.

Mississippi Steamboat
Mississippi Steamboat

Do you have any upcoming shows or exhibitions?

I currently have two pieces in the “MSP Creates 2023” art exhibition on the C Concourse at the Minneapolis/St Paul airport. I have two pieces in a Gallery 96 show at the Shoreview Public Library called “White Out” that runs January 20 to March 1. I am a member of the Dow Gallery on University Ave in St. Paul, the House of heART2 AirBnB gallery in the Summit Hill neighborhood of St. Paul and the Art Guild Gallery in Stillwater and have permanent wall space in all three venues. My notecards are for sale in the giftshop of White Bear Center for the Arts. I will be an active participant in the St. Paul Art Crawls in the spring and fall.

Ballerinas

What are your aspirations for the next year as an artist?

I am in the process of consolidating all my framed photos from my previous studio and my home and am looking forward to hanging as many as I can so I can use my studio space as a showroom/gallery of my work.

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Tulip 15 by Tom Reynen

Is there anything else you would like to share?

My photos are available as both framed and unframed/matted prints.  I also have a series of notecards made from my photos. 

You can find Tom in studio 307B at F-O-K Studios.
See more of Tom’s work on his website https://tom-reynen.pixels.com/

F-O-K Studios Featured Artist: Martha Bird and Her Woven Willow Sculptures

Martha Bird
Photo by: Emily Donovan

Meet Martha Bird

Martha Bird, an accomplished interdisciplinary artist living in Minneapolis, has been with F-O-K Studios at Farwell on Water since November 1, 2023. She honed her expertise in the craft of traditional basketry and is now vested in pushing the traditions of the technique into new forms and spaces through her artistic practice. Offering a window into Martha Bird’s artistic universe, this Q&A provides a deeper appreciation of the compelling narratives that fuel her passion for woven willow sculptures. She shares profound insights into her artistic inspirations, innovative processes, and the connection between her work and the world that surrounds her.

What themes or subjects do you commonly explore in your work?

My work explores the human body, manifestations of trauma, and concepts of resilience, energy, and growth. I’m inspired to use natural fibers as a path to explore the interplay of interior and exterior space, imperfection, and presence. I see my work as memoir. The meaning becomes clear when I am done and looking at the pieces in the context of each other. 

Martha Bird Art
marthabirdart.com

How did you start your journey as an artist?

In 1994, depressed and on bedrest from a disabling injury, I took a class in basketweaving and found it profoundly rehabilitating. As my health improved, I got really excited about the medium and dove into taking classes and exploring all the various weaves. I started attending an art studio program in Minneapolis several years later and because of my regular attendance, I was awarded my first solo exhibition. The community response was overwhelmingly positive, and from there I decided to continue creating and showing art.

What or who are your biggest influences?

Foundational basketry techniques are my starting point in creating conceptual sculptures that challenge the utilitarian form. Basketry is an artistic medium traditionally passed down from artisan to artisan, and to that end, nationally and internationally known basketmakers have taught and influenced me, including Pat Hickman, Jo Campbell-Amsler, and Patrick Dougherty. I also spent a month studying extensively with traditional Irish basketmakers in Ireland. 

Martha Bird with Patrick Dougherty (left)

Can you share a defining moment in your artistic career?

I expanded my work nationally when the former founder/curator of a Smithsonian gallery, Lloyd Herman, chose my very first sculptural basket to tour the US for a year with the National Basketry Organization. A mentor told me that part of being an artist is growing a thick skin to tolerate rejection when applying for opportunities. I entered this call thinking just that — a start to hearing ‘no’s — but I was utterly shocked when I was accepted into the exhibition. From there on I had confidence to pursue a career as an artist specializing in sculptural basketry.

“I am an artist, a nurse, and a truthteller. The artist in me wants to express; the nurse in me wants to encourage healing; and the truthteller wants to put form to difficult universal truths.”

-Martha Bird

What do you love about working within the Farwell on Water community?

I love that there are so many other artists creating in the building and I can hear the buzz of other artists working, while I too am working. I love that it is part of the St. Paul Art Crawl.

How has the studio space contributed to your work?

This studio is my first solo artist space and I’m excited to see how this influences my artwork.

marthabirdart.com

Do you have any upcoming shows or exhibitions?

My work can be found on Artsy.net, a bus stop at Franklin Ave & Chicago Ave in Minneapolis, and in an exhibition at Form + Content Gallery in Minneapolis from April 11 – May 18, 2024.

What are your aspirations for the next year as an artist?

I’m looking forward to establishing my art practice and routine at F-O-K Studios, joining in on an art crawl for the first time (St. Paul Art Crawl), and having the focus to start innovating my work in the studio.

Long-term art goals are to exhibit in the Minnesota Artist Exhibition Program at the Minneapolis Institute of Art and for this to lead to exhibiting my spiral sculptures in the Guggenheim in NYC, a spiral-ramped building topped by a large skylight. 

marthabirdart.com

Is there anything else you would like to share?

I particularly love working with willow. The process of creating art with this material is complex. It literally takes a year to prepare the materials. I grow and harvest my own willow — six different varieties (colors) each growing to between 6-10 feet tall. I harvest in the winter when it’s dormant and then dry it for a year to prevent shrinkage when I work with it. Then when I’m ready to weave, I soak the rods in a really long soaking tank — 12 feet by 12 inches — for 6-10 days. From there I wrap it in a bed sheet for 24 hours to facilitate further water absorption through a process called “mellowing.” Finally I can then begin the weaving process. The tricky part is that I have to use the soaked willow within a week, as it starts drying right away and cannot be used after drying this second time. Most people don’t realize what goes into making just one sculpture.

See more of Martha’s work on her website www.marthabirdart.com
Or Instagram @marthabirdart

Better yet, stop in and visit Martha in her studio during First Fridays and the St. Paul Art Crawl (April and October).

W2 Works: Innovative Workspace in St. Paul Welcomes Friends of the Mississippi River

In the heart of St. Paul, Minnesota, a new and exciting workspace is making waves, and it’s more than just an office—it’s a thriving center of creativity and innovation. Introducing W2 Works, where St. Paul professionals come together to redefine the future of work. We are truly excited to extend a warm welcome to Friends of the Mississippi River, who have chosen to make our space their home!

More about W2 Works: A Hub for St. Paul Professionals

W2 Works is not your typical workspace; it’s a dynamic environment designed to inspire and empower professionals. Located within the historic Warehouse 2, just south of the picturesque Harriet Island, W2 Works is located at 106 Water Street, St. Paul, Minn.

The Future of Work

As the way we work continues to evolve, W2 Works is at the forefront of this transformation. It’s not just about providing a place to work; it’s about fostering a community where creativity flourishes, collaboration thrives, and innovation knows no bounds. Here’s what you can expect at W2 Works:

Historic Workspace

Step into a historic and thoughtfully designed workspace that adapts to your needs. Whether you need a quiet corner for focused work or a collaborative area for brainstorming sessions, we have it all. W2 Works aims to provide a space that melds history with innovation.

Productivity Boost

W2 Works is more than a physical space; it’s a productivity powerhouse. Our environment is carefully curated to inspire your best work, and our amenities are designed to support your efficiency. Here, amidst the architectural elements that tell a century-old tale, a new generation of business leaders can write their own stories.

Creative Community

W2 Works is part of a dynamic hub of creativity and commerce. With F-O-K Studios catering to local artists. Connect with like-minded professionals who share your passion for innovation. W2 Works is a hub where ideas flow freely, partnerships are forged, and creativity knows no bounds.

Prime Location

Situated in the heart of St. Paul, W2 Works offers convenience like no other. Easy access to downtown St. Paul, proximity to Harriet Island, and stunning river views make this location truly special.

Endless Possibilities

The future of work is about flexibility and adaptability. At W2 Works, you’ll have the freedom to shape your workday, whether you prefer a private office, a shared workspace, or a virtual presence.

Welcome to the future of work at W2 Works, where innovation meets collaboration, and professionals come together to write the next chapter of success. We’re excited to have Friends of the Mississippi River join us on this incredible journey. Together, we’ll redefine what it means to work, create, and thrive.

Friends of the Mississippi River (FMR) engages people to protect, restore and enhance the Mississippi River and its watershed in the Twin Cities region. Learn more about how you can get involved at fmr.org.

Introducing “Farwell on Water”: A Beacon of Community, Creativity, and Affordable Living

We are thrilled to announce the groundbreaking of St Paul’s Farwell on Water district, Buhl Investors’ latest mixed-use development that encapsulates our vision for a vibrant, integrated, and dynamic community. At the heart of this project are values that resonate deeply with us – fostering community ties, celebrating artistic expression, and ensuring accessibility to all.

As we embark on this transformative journey, we invite you to get an exclusive, firsthand look at the groundbreaking ceremony that took place in June. Witness the pivotal moments as Pete Deanovic of Buhl Investors and Mayor Melvin Carter of St. Paul come together to symbolize the commencement of Farwell on Water.

Unveiling Esox House and Harbourline

At the forefront of this ambitious project are two residential ventures that stand as pillars of inclusivity and modern living: Esox House and Harbourline.

Esox House brings 221 market-rate units to the table, promising “naturally beautiful living.” With Harriet Island as its front yard, residents are promised a daily dose of serenity with stunning views of the Mississippi River. Wake up to the rhythmic flow of the river, and bask in nature’s beauty right from your window.

Harbourline champions our dedication to inclusivity with 63 affordable units. “Land easy. Live well,” is not just a tagline; it’s our commitment to ensuring everyone finds their perfect home here. Moreover, with seven units reserved for supportive housing services for individuals facing homelessness or disabilities, Harbourline is set to be a beacon of hope and community support.

More Than Just a Place to Live

Farwell on Water isn’t just about beautiful residences overlooking the Mississippi River. It’s about the heart and soul of St. Paul. Nestled within the development is the historically significant Farwell, Ozmun, Kirk & Co. warehouse, which has seamlessly transitioned into the creative hub, F-O-K Studios at 102 Water St.

Our mixed-use blueprint introduces W2 Works – modern office spaces designed for businesses that envision a future hand-in-hand with community and culture. Add to this, a contemporary restaurant and the public plaza, aptly named The Farwell Yard, and you have a space that’s brimming with life and opportunities.

The future of St. Paul lies in bridging communities, fostering diversity, and creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels at home. Farwell on Water is our step towards that future. With artist events, community gatherings, and a host of other events, the district will become a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and dreams.

St. Paul’s horizon is bright, and Farwell on Water is set to be its shining star. A place where past meets present, where dreams meet reality, and where every individual finds their unique place. Join us on this exhilarating journey to redefine St. Paul living.

Looking Ahead

The journey of Farwell on Water is an unfolding tapestry of community, innovation, and artistic brilliance. As we continue to shape this visionary project, make sure you’re at the forefront of all the latest developments, milestones, and community stories.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter and stay updated with construction progress, exclusive insights, and more from the heart of St. Paul’s next iconic district.